Artabanus of Persia Facts for Kids

Artabanus of Persia (also known as Artabanus the Hyrcanian) was an important political figure in ancient Persia. He lived during the time of the Achaemenid dynasty, a powerful Persian empire. Artabanus was said to have been a Regent of Persia for a few months, around 465 BC to 464 BC. A regent is someone who rules a country when the king is too young or unable to rule.

Artabanus likely came from a region called Hyrcania. He was an important helper to Xerxes I, who was the King of Persia. Some people believe Artabanus was Xerxes's main advisor, like a prime minister. Others think he was the head of the king's personal guards.

According to ancient writers, Artabanus was involved in the deaths of King Xerxes I and his son, Crown Prince Darius. One story says Artabanus was responsible for Prince Darius's death. He then worried that King Xerxes would get revenge, so he also killed the king. Another story says Artabanus wanted to become king himself. He secretly killed Xerxes and then blamed Prince Darius, which led to Darius being put to death. We don't know the exact order of these events, but the deaths of both Xerxes and Darius meant the throne was empty.

After these events, Artabanus's next steps are also unclear. Some accounts say he tried to take the throne for himself. Other stories suggest he helped the young Artaxerxes I become king. In this version, Artabanus acted as a regent, holding the real power behind the new king. However, this situation did not last long, only a few months. Artaxerxes is said to have killed Artabanus himself, either in a fight or by surprise. Sometimes, Artabanus is listed among the kings of the Achaemenid dynasty, even though he was not part of the royal family.

Artabanus of Persia facts for kids

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